G.F. 323
CONFIDENTIAL #
The presence of waters suitable for a deep water harbour is noted. Situated off the coast of north western Lantau, there are four and one-half square miles more than 60 feet deep and fourteen square miles more than 30 feet deep. The deep water extends close to the shore, and major maritime industries have planning studies under way for ventures which might employ 3,000 to 5,000 workers, plus satellite jobs in services, retailing, and supporting industries.
The
Nearby, the peninsula between Penny's Bay and Ma Wen Island is found to have 750 acres of land with cross-slopes gentler than one to three, and 400 acres more with slopes between one to three and one to four. At relatively moderate population densities, these 1,150 acres could support a planned community of 45,000. long term needs of Hong Kong for housing are reviewed with respect to the ability of Lantau to support a sizeable population. Although the new towns of Tsuen Wan, Shatin, and Tuen Mun will combine to shelter 1,800,000 people by 1991, there remain a net increase in population of 270,000 between now and 1991 in the "remainder of the New Terri- tories" who are not scheduled for definite locations. Additionally, as expectations rise, and as the opportunities exist, there may be greater exodus from the urban areas than planning now envisions.
The extensive shallows between Chek Lap Kok Island and Yam O Bay are noted as suitable for large scale reclamation in stages as needed, eventually yielding three square miles for another new town. The area is an extension westward of the area of interest to heavy maritime industry, and is also separated from the south shore beaches by the mountain range which is capped by Sunset Peak.
Traffic Implications
The study recognizes that traffic over a crossing depends upon the population on Lantau. At the lowest pro bable 1993 population, 115,000 inhabitants, 33,500 vehicles of all kinds would cross daily. If a new town were built, and the population were to reach 475,000 then 139,000 vehicles would 'desire' to cross. Passenger trips repre- sented by these vehicles would be 152,100 and 631, 200
/respectively
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CONFIDENTIAL Z